Scientific genius Dr. Reed Richards' lifelong dream is close to being realized--a trip to space and to the center of a cosmic storm to unlock the secrets of the human genetic code. Financed by rival-turned-billionaire-industrialist Victor Von Doom, Reed's crew for the mission includes his best friend, astronaut Ben Grimm; Susan Storm, Von Doom's director of genetic research and Reed's ex-girlfriend; and Sue's hot-headed younger brother, pilot Johnny Storm. With benefactor Von Doom in tow, the four set off for the exploration of a lifetime. But something goes terribly wrong, as cosmic radiation irrevocably alters their DNA and their future. Back on Earth, the effects of the exposure are quickly revealed: Reed gains the ability to stretch and contort his body into any shape he can imagine. Sue is able to render herself invisible and to create and project powerful force fields. Johnny can now engulf his body in flames and take flight at will, and Ben, whose freakish transmutation is the most shocking, becomes an orange-colored, rock-like, superhumanly strong creature. Together, they turn tragedy into triumph and catastrophe into coalition, and must use their unique and formidable powers against Victor Von Doom--who has also not escaped the effects of the cosmic storm unscathed. Adventurers. Super Heroes. Celebrities. To the world, they are the Fantastic Four. To each other, they are a family.